The monks live and work in a muslim community ministering to the people and being a living example of Christ’s love. They don’t preach to their muslim neighbors or try to impose their beliefs on them and I really admired that approach. The people turn to them for advice and consider them as part of the community, even though they practice different faiths. So when radical terrorists begin killing people in the community and the monks discuss the possibility of leaving, the community reaches out to them asking them to stay. Much of the film is based around their decision and each member of the monastic community struggles as they seek a unanimous decision.
True to Life
One of the greatest parts of the film is the way in which the monastic life is portrayed. Throughout the film, the monks are seen praying together, eating together, working together, and worshipping together. They also share their individual struggles and the difficulty for them to come to a consensus is clearly seen. Various times each day the monks gather in a small chapel to pray, sing, and participate in the Mass. They also gather as a family to share their meals and their Christian fellowship is highlighted in the daily routine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWEIxzlKCgA
For most of people—myself included—the monastic life is always looked at in a negative light and the impression is that these are people who are trying to escape from the world and live in solitude with no care for others. This film shows the truth that these men have answered a call to live out their faith in a selfless way, serving God and their communities, giving their lives for the faith.
I enjoyed this film and I definitely recommend it, but if it’s action or suspense that you are looking for, this is not that film. This film will call you to a closer union with God and a deeper sense of community and fellowship. The visuals are amazing and truly draw you into the monastic life in a way I’ve never before experienced.